1 Chronicles 25:7
So the number of them, with their brethren that were instructed in the songs of the LORD, [even] all that were cunning, was two hundred fourscore and eight.
So the number {H4557} of them, with their brethren {H251} that were instructed {H3925} in the songs {H7892} of the LORD {H3068}, even all that were cunning {H995}, was two hundred {H3967} fourscore {H8084} and eight {H8083}.
Their number, together with their kinsmen who had been instructed in singing to ADONAI, was 288, all well trained.
Together with their relatives, who were all trained and skillful in the songs of the LORD, they numbered 288.
And the number of them, with their brethren that were instructed in singing unto Jehovah, even all that were skilful, was two hundred fourscore and eight.
Cross-References
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1 Chronicles 23:5
Moreover four thousand [were] porters; and four thousand praised the LORD with the instruments which I made, [said David], to praise [therewith].
Commentary
1 Chronicles 25:7 continues the detailed account of King David's organization of the Levitical musicians and singers for temple service. This verse provides the culminating number of these highly skilled individuals, emphasizing their dedicated role in the worship life of ancient Israel.
Context
Chapter 25 of 1 Chronicles meticulously outlines King David's extensive preparations for the future temple worship, even before the temple itself was built by his son Solomon. David, inspired by God, established specific roles and courses for the Levites, particularly those gifted in music. This organization ensured that the sacred duties of praise and prophecy through music would be carried out with order and excellence. The preceding verses introduce the prominent families of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, whose descendants formed the core of these musical ministries.
Meaning of the Verse
This verse states the final count of these dedicated musicians: "two hundred fourscore and eight" (288). This number represents all the individuals, including the heads of families mentioned earlier (like Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun) and their "brethren" (relatives or fellow Levites), who were specifically "instructed in the songs of the LORD." The phrase "all that were cunning" refers to their exceptional skill and proficiency. Here, "cunning" does not imply deceit but rather expertise and mastery in musical performance and composition for divine service. Their instruction in "songs of the LORD" highlights the spiritual and prophetic nature of their musical roles, which were integral to Israel's worship life.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insight
The KJV word "cunning" (Hebrew: bin or bina) in this context means skillful, expert, or discerning. It refers to their understanding and mastery of musical instruments and vocal techniques for worship, not to any deceptive quality. The phrase "songs of the LORD" (Hebrew: shir Yahweh) specifically designates the sacred nature and divine origin of the music they performed, distinguishing it from secular songs.
Practical Application
This verse reminds us of the importance of excellence and dedication in all forms of service to God. Just as these Levitical musicians devoted themselves to mastering their craft for worship, believers today are called to use their gifts and talents to God's glory with diligence and skill. It also highlights the enduring significance of music in worship, whether through leading congregational singing or offering instrumental praise. Our worship, like theirs, should be purposeful, skillful, and directed towards God, allowing everything that has breath to praise the LORD.
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